EA reveals first Hasbro games for mobile and DS

When EA and Hasbro got in bed together by announcing a five-year strategic partnership back in August 2007, we figured it wouldn't be long before we got to hear some news as a result of what is expected to be a very productive relationship.

Well, the two companies have certainly been busy because today EA has announced the initial slate of the Hasbro new arrivals we should expect this year. The gestation period varies from title to title, as well as format, but looks set to span the next eight months, with deliveries keeping us busy from now until the autumn.

Most immediate is Scrabble, which is already available for mobile in North America. This latest update includes flexible difficulty levels, built-in word list, dynamic animations, scrolling and full-board views. You can play on your own, against the phone or a friend via the pass-the-handset feature.

Monopoly Here & Now, meanwhile, is down as a March release. It's aptly named, however, as we were under the impression the game is indeed already available on mobile (and previously published by Glu). It's possible EA's announcement of the game, which is a modern make-over of the classic boardgame, refers to a US release.

Lastly for mobile is Yahtzee Adventures, which is due in April. You get to travel the globe, meet new characters and challenge them to a game. There are Classic, Duplicate, Rainbow and Battle modes available, along with pass-the-handset support.

On DS, EA Hasbro has two titles, both due in the autumn. NERF N-Strike, the first game based on the franchise, encourages you to wreak havoc in a world allegedly created to offer the ideal landscape for NERF mayhem. Which means perfecting your blasting skills in both the single- and multi-player options offered.

If that sounds a trifle too violent, Littlest Pet Shop brings the popular (we're assured) girl's brand to digital life and sees you owning a pet store. You get three distinct environments to explore, unlocking new pets, playsets, accessories and more along the way. The game encourages you to "discover magical moments of delight" by bonding with your pets and will come in three versions, each with a unique set of creatures to cherish.

Returning to mobile, EA's press release also mentioned Risk as coming to the format, although subsequently failed to offer any details. We suspect a version of this beloved strategy classic is on its way, but will obviously report back on it and any further Hasbro announcements. This is going to be one big family.